A study published in March by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) on the mental state of Iraqis in Jordan and Lebanon has pointed to mounting social and economic problems as the cause of increased domestic violence.

"A day in February 2006 is imprinted as vividly on Renu's mind as her body. In the quiet, narrow lane outside her east Delhi home, she had been bathing the family buffaloes when her father's tenant, a mug in hand, came towards her.

The Ministry of Social Affairs will establish a center to receive complaints about domestic violence and follow up such cases round the clock, said Awad Al-Radadi, deputy minister for social care and development, according to the Saudi Press Agency.